Why the Performing Arts are Important

Why the Performing Arts are Important

In the late 20th century, many performing arts critics believed that the performing arts would lose their relevance. They cited the rise of the internet, streaming services and TV as being among the reasons why dance and performing arts would become obsolete. However, dance and performing arts continue to reach new audiences and attract new talent. When so many critics thought this was impossible, why do the performing arts continue to buck the trend? What is it that makes them essential and able to stand the test of time?

Expression and Self-discovery

The importance of artists' self-expression was emphasised from the earliest days of the first performing arts colleges. Dance, theatre and other performing arts help teach individuals how to express themselves effectively. Art and dance can become exceptionally useful tools for helping people with disabilities to communicate. Shyness, anxiety and lack of confidence can be gradually addressed by performing dance and other forms of art expression. The performing arts not only help the individual develop self-expression but can also benefit society as a whole. Theatre and dance performing arts can point out and challenge attitudes and prevailing mindsets. It can encourage people to question perceived notions and better understand their current situation.

Education, History and Performing Arts

One of the many roles of dance and performing arts throughout history has been to educate and record people and societies' history. Early storytellers, jesters, minstrels and bards entertained, provided social commentary and told stories of heroes and legends to enlighten and teach as much as to entertain. Dance, movement and theatre are incorporated into different religions to keep their stories and deities alive. Classical theatre, such as Shakespeare, played the same role in its time. The importance to society, change, and education can be seen in the fact that theatres and performers are often the first to be silenced when there is a coup, a change in policy or a government that feels threatened.

Creativity

Creativity is at the heart of all performing arts in Manchester, the North West and further afield. Creativity is also vital to being human. When we are unable to create or express ourselves, we suffer at many different levels. Human development, society, industry, science all require the spark of creativity to move forward. Performing dance, reading poetry, telling stories, acting, and the many other forms of performing arts allow that creative spark to be born and to take shape. Without that initial spark, society cannot move forward. If for no other reason, then nurturing creativity is the core reason why the performing arts are important. If you want to be part of something greater, consider studying one of the many dance and performing arts courses available at the University of Bolton.

Why Study Performing Arts Courses at the University of Bolton?

When you study a dance and performing arts course at Bolton University, you gain access to some of the top professionals in the world of performing arts. Teaching methods put the student's needs first and always seek to support professional development, creativity and self-expression. These are just some of the reasons why we are a Guardian Top 50 UK University and have been ranked No. 1 for Student Satisfaction for the past three years.* Join us to experience #UniAsItShouldBe.

Get in Touch

Whether you are looking for a career in art and dance or developing your own creativity and self-expression, dance performing arts courses can help. Find out more by getting in touch with us today. For questions and queries relating to accommodation in Greater Manchester, disability support, finance, funding or anything else, our award-winning Student Services team is here to help.

Check out the dance and performing arts course page, call +44(0)1204 900 600 or email enquiries@bolton.ac.uk to find out more about enrolling on the course of your choice.

*Complete University Guide 2021, 2020, 2019 – North West Region